Disturbance-generated niche-segregation in a structured metapopulation model Kalle Parvinen 1,* and G´ eza Mesz´ ena 2 May 11, 2009 1. Department of Mathematics, FIN-20014 University of Turku, Finland E-mail: kalparvi@utu.fi, * author for correspondence 2. Department ofBiologicalPhysics, E¨otv¨os University, P´azm´any 1A,Bu- dapest, H-1117 Hungary E-mail: geza.meszena@elte.hu Abstract Question: Does limiting similarity apply for coexistence maintained by disturbance in a metapopulation? Methods: In contrast to patch occupancy modeling, we follow both local- and metapopulation-scale dynamics explicitly. The theory of structured metapopulations is used for this purpose. Adaptive dy- namics is employed to study evolution. Key assumptions: Local catastrophes at a given rate. Fixed dis- persal rate, trade-off between fecundity and local competitivity. Results: Coexistence of a few (up to 5), but not more species is observed. They are distinctly different along the trade-off variable and partition the patch-age axis. Series of evolutionary branchings leads to an evolutionary stable coalition. Conclusions: The usual niche theoretical picture of decreased com- petition with increased differentiation applies. The patch-age is the proper niche axis. Niche differentiation along this axis is the require- ment of coexistence. Constraints of coexistence is overlooked in patch occupancy models. Keywords: Diversity, disturbance, niche, metapopulation 1